Finance and Development Planning Minister, Augustine Kpehe Ngafaun has reaffirmed government’s commitment to advance sports development.
Ngafuan meanwhile, pledged stronger support for initiatives to strengthen the sector and elevate the all-female kickball as a uniquely Liberian sport that deserved national and international recognition.
He made the commitment over the weekend at programs that marked the 2nd edition of the Sports Writers Association of Liberia (SWAL) Awards ceremony.
The ceremony was held in Paynesville, outside Monrovia.
Ngafuan called for greater support and promotion of kickball, which he described as one of Liberia’s “most unique cultural and sporting assets.”
He wants kickball to be legally protected, properly branded and promoted internationally as a sport with Liberian roots.
“We all grew up believing kickball was played everywhere in the world, only to later discover that it is a Liberia innovation. We must protect it, or risk losing ownership of something that belongs to us. We need to work with the Liberia Tourism Authority, and other stakeholders to brand and market kickball as a national treasure.”
Ngafaun assured stakeholders that the government would explore avenues to mobilize the resources needed to develop the sport, and raise its profile on the world stage.
“Whatever resources are required to promote this sport; we will work to find them.”
He added that sports development should form part of national development strategies.
Ngafuan also called for increased support to football and other sporting disciplines; expressing optimism that Liberia can one day qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
“That dream is achievable. We can work toward the day when Liberians gather in stadiums, and view centers to watch our national team compete at the world cup.”
Mr. Ngafuan highlighted government’s growing investment in the sector, which he disclosed how the current fiscal budget includes a record increase in support for sports.
The process, he said, government was committed to advocate for expanded allocations in future budgets to sustain growth and development in sporting activities.
The ceremony was predominately attended by an audience of sports journalists, officials, athletes and government representatives. Minister Ngafuan paid tribute to the pioneers of sports journalism whose dedication helped shape the profession and promote sports in the country.
“Sports journalists may think their work is ordinary, but many young people look up to them as role models. Through your reportage, you have sharped minds, inspired future generations, and contributed to national development.”
Ngafuan also highlighted the unifying power of sports, and its role in creating opportunities for the youthful population.
He acknowledged that sports compete with other critical sectors, such as education, agriculture, roads and energy for government funding, but said, investing in sports remains essential to development agenda.
“Sports is a unifier, when Liberia wins, everyone celebrates regardless of their background. Sports gives hope to our young people and helps build a stronger nation.”
He further pledged continued support for media development and professional growth opportunities for sports journalists, recognizing their vital role in promoting excellence and national cohesion.
Ngafuan then congratulated all award recipients and encouraged both winners and nominees to remain committed to hard work and continuous improvement.
“Those who received awards should not rest on their achievements, and those who did not win should remain focused and keep striving for excellence; excellence must always be our standard.”
The 2nd SWAL Awards ceremony recognized outstanding achievements in sports journalism, and honored individuals and institutions that have contributed significantly to the growth and development of sports.
Macpherson C. Marbiah writes/0886442881-0777250370
